The term “Human-Character” refers to a particular way of holding the Butterfly Knives in a unique pattern in this set which is effective for disarming an opponent's weapon. In Chinese, Butterfly Knives are usually called “Southern Knives”.

This video series shows the beginning of the set taught by Grandmaster Wong at the UK Summer Camp 2007 in Canterbury, England. Grandmaster Wong explains how to generate internal force and how to perform an important pattern, “Fierce Tiger Descends Mountain”, where rotation of the waist is essential.

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The Importance of Internal Force

It is telling that after the traditional salutation pattern, this set starts with generating internal force although it is a weapon set where sharp blades replace striking power as the main destructive agent. This reminds us that internal force is still important in a weapon set.

The Main Technique of a Knife is Slashing

This pattern is called “Fierce Tiger Descends Mountain”, which is a slashing technique rather than chopping. The curve of the knife blade is meant for slashing purpose. Many students may not realize that a knife is for slashing, whereas an axe is for chopping.

Fierce Tiger Descends Mountain

This pattern “Fierce Tiger Descends Mountain” is repeated five times in different directions and is performed at the beginning of the set, indicating that it is a very important pattern. Would you be able to tell how is this important pattern used in combat?

The Importance of Waist Movement

Grandmaster Wong explains two crucial points in performing this technique. It is a slashing technique, and not a chopping technique. Hence, you should slash instead of chop. Do you know the difference? Secondly, it is important to rotate the waist. It is not just a hand movement. Much of the movement of the Butterfly Knives is due to the movement of the waist rather than the movement of the hands.

Vibrant and Flowing Movements

Firstly, Grandmaster Wong demonstrates how the Butterfly Knives should not be performed. Then he shows the correct way in performing them. The incorrect performance is rigid and limp whereas the correct performance is vibrant and flowing.

Manifestation of Yin-Yang Harmony

Grandmaster Wong goes over all the movements taught. Notice that the movements are forceful and fluid at the same time, manifesting yin-yang harmony. If they were forceful but rigid, or fluid but lacking in force, then they committed the “weakness of double yang”.